How to Tell if a Dog Is Sick

Video Transcript

"Let's talk about how to tell if your dog is sick. Dogs are pack animals. They tend to mask their symptoms very, very well so no one else around them can tell that they're sick, so it makes it difficult for us as Veterinarians, and also you as owners to determine sometimes how sick, or if your your dog is sick. So some clues that we can, we can see on dogs that will shine through to tell us if they're sick would be appetite. That's probably one of the number one things. If appetite is dropping, they're not eating; something's up. You know, that's going to be one of the first things to go. Also, you can tell by their demeanor. Are they lethargic? Are they just wanting to lay around more; not do a whole lot? They're eyes sometimes can tell you a little bit. If a dog is sick they might be squinting a little bit more, or just almost acting sleepy more often than anything else. And so, those are some little clues. If dogs have fevers, very often they'll their ears will feel very hot on the inside where there is no hair. Other things, like not drinking might show up, as well. Obviously, if there is vomiting, diarrhea or any true symptoms that's your, that you're seeing, you can tell, but dogs can be very subtle sometimes. And so basically, if they're off of food, if things are just not looking correct, then have your Veterinarian check to see if your pet is sick."